Meeting with the Minister of Economy and Finance

On January 27, 2025, members of the AmCham Haiti Board of Directors and the Executive Director met with the newly appointed Minister of Economy and Finance, Mr. Alfred Metellus. The meeting focused on the Ministry’s priorities for the current fiscal year and the support measures being considered for the private sector as part of Haiti’s economic recovery efforts.

The Minister shared that a revised national budget is currently being developed, with an emphasis on security, aligning with the government’s three strategic pillars: elections, referendum, and public safety.

Key discussion points included:

• The Ministry of Economy and Finance (MEF) is seeking to mobilize USD 1.2 billion and is planning a Donors’ Conference in April to raise international awareness and support for Haiti.
• The MEF expressed openness to Public-Private Partnerships (PPPs) in the energy sector, particularly in solar, natural gas, and wind energy.
• A formal platform for regular dialogue will be established between the MEF and private sector associations to ensure transparency and encourage constructive collaboration.
• The Bank of the Republic of Haiti (BRH) is preparing a business recapitalization plan, aiming to mobilize between USD 20 to 30 million before the end of the fiscal year.
• A Board member recommended renewing the moratorium on bank loans to assist entrepreneurs impacted by ongoing insecurity. Additional incentives were also suggested noting that the MEF does not plan to implement new tax exemptions or reductions.
• The meeting underscored the urgent need for innovative solutions to address Haiti’s multifaceted socio-economic challenges.

Before closing, AmCham board members invited Minister Metellus to participate as a panelist at an upcoming event scheduled for March, titled: “Economic Recovery: Challenges and Opportunities,” alongside the Governor of the BRH and the Minister of Commerce. The date will be confirmed once speakers availability is finalized.